Simple Self Care for Summer

While technically we have farewelled summer in the southern hemisphere, we are still seeing sweltering days that feel otherwise. I wanted to jot down some simple, affordable and ultimately cooling self-care tactics.

I’m not one to completely loathe the heat, but I do find myself drained and short of focus when the mercury hits above 30 degrees celsius. These little methods I’ve found to be a great distraction from the heat whilst also pampering myself at the same time.

A Cool Foot Soak

Not just for Nanna, or for the beauty salon- a cool foot soak is my favourite goto for when I’m working at home on the computer. Simply run cool water (cold or lukewarm to your preference) into a tub large enough for your feet and add some essential oils (my go to is lavender or eucalyptus). I often get puffy feet from the heat and this is the most effective solution to calming down my swelling ankles and toes! 

Homemade Iced Tea

I find the best time to prep a big pitcher of ice tea is often the night before a hot day. This gives the tea a chance to really seep into the water giving you a fuller flavour and most importantly, it gives the tea the time it needs to cool down in the fridge.

I make both herbal and black ice teas. They require slightly different approaches. 

For Black Tea:

I use 2x tea bags per jug, and I often add fresh lemon slices with the tea bags from the get go. Pour just boiled water into your jug, letting it rest at room temperature for half an hour, then transfer to fridge.

For Herbal Tea:

I use 3-4x tea bags per jug (dependent on what flavour herbal I’m using). Boil your kettle, but let it rest for about 3-5 minutes after boiling before pouring into your tea jug. Again, let the tea rest at room temperature for half an hour, then transfer to fridge. I often serve herbal tea with fresh berries, citrus slices, ginger or mint (to complement the flavour of tea). 

Take A Dip

Whether it’s the beach, the local pool or in more often than not in my case, a river- make the time each week to literally submerge yourself. I’m not suggesting a swim of 500m, but get in and have a splash. You can opt to do this solo, with your partner or friends depending on what suits you best. 

Turn Off The Screen &
Have a Read

Not only does this give your mind some time to switch off from social media, work and the fifteen tabs always open in your browser, it will literally cool you down too. Phones, tablets, tvs and  computers emit a large amount of heat, especially in hot weather.
So switch it off, sit near some natural light (with SPF protection on of course) and dig into that book or magazine that’s been vying for your attention all summer long.